False Cause

Description

This causal relationship is often claimed when there is correlation between A
and B (that they vary together) or a relatively distant causal connection.

Example

It is dark now, which makes it very dangerous. [It is
not the dark that causes danger].

Drinking fresh water will keep you well. [It may
contribute, but it is not the only or sufficient cause].

Money makes people arrogant. [Not all people, and not
always just money]

Discussion

Cause-and-effect reasoning
is a valid form of rational logic, but only if the causal relationship is
established. It is very easy to find that two things vary together and assume
cause-and-effect, but this only proves correlation. It may be, for example, that
both are effects of a prior common cause.

Causal arguments are often
wishful thinking,
where the speaker is seeking to prove their case, and hopes (as with other
fallacies) that their causal assertion is not challenged.